Watford have confirmed the loan signings of five players from Udinese and the Hornets have an option to buy the players at the end of their temporary stay at Vicarage Road .

The Italian club, who are also owned by the Pozzos, stated earlier today on their website that Cristian Battocchio, Neuton Sergio Piccoli, Joel Ekstrand, Fernando Forestieri and Jean-Alain Fanchone had joined the Hornets.

Now in the last few minutes, Watford have confirmed the quintet have joined the club on season-long loans and that the Hertforshire club have the option to buy the players at the end of their temporary stay.

Click here for more information on the new signings.

Udinese needed to complete their business before the Italian transfer window closed earlier this evening whereas Watford had until 11pm tonight to conclude their signings.

With the loan window re-opening next week, the Hornets can still reduce the size of their squad in the coming weeks but Udinese do not enjoy the same luxury.

However, one player expected to leave Watford is centre back Martin Taylor, who looks set to join Sheffield Wednesday.